Almost a third of Russians, about 29 percent, self-medicate when illness symptoms appear. Around 16 percent tolerate unwanted symptoms because they feel there is no time for treatment. And roughly 9 percent rely on traditional methods to fight diseases. These figures come from the Budu study, with results reviewed by socialbites.ca.
One in five people prefer a blend of folk remedies and medications during treatment. Twenty percent follow doctors’ recommendations or prescribe medicines independently, while 19 percent rely solely on folk remedies.
The most common self-treatment methods include hot tea with jam, used by 44 percent of respondents; vodka with pepper, taken orally or applied through massage, by 34 percent; and cough syrups with eucalyptus by 26 percent. About one in ten people boost immunity with ginger and citrus, relieve nasal congestion with hot salt and garlic, or use essential oil inhalations. Some also take baths or visit saunas as a preventive measure.
Yet none of the four folk methods proved effective in curing illnesses or strengthening the immune system. A further 57 percent reported partial benefits from these practices, and ten percent noted that self-medication with folk methods worsened their disease course.
During the winter, 70 percent of people rely on traditional methods to maintain health. Consequently, one in four believe that dressing warmly is essential, and many take vitamins C and D to avoid illness. Sixteen percent think layering is key, 15 percent follow their parents’ advice to wear hats and scarves, and 12 percent allow some alcohol before going out to warm up.
At the same time, the impact of such measures is not universally recognized. One in four people see no benefit, and half report only partial benefits. Additionally, 35 percent notice a deterioration in immunity, meaning people tend to get sick more often.
A quarter of respondents believe in these methods out of childhood habit, while 20 percent are convinced that popularity indicates effectiveness. The remaining 15 percent prefer to avoid frequent medication, 13 percent think any method can help fight disease, and ten percent rely on the advice of others.
Regions have issued instructions to prevent the new spread of coronavirus.